Conflict in Syria: New Leadership Faces Deadly Insurgency

Syrian interim leader Ahmed Sharaa appeals for peace amid escalating violence between former President Assad's supporters and the new Islamist rulers. Clashes have resulted in over 1,000 deaths, mostly civilians, as new government forces battle insurgents in the coastal regions, struggling to maintain stability.

Syrian interim leader Ahmed Sharaa has called for peace after violent clashes have erupted, leaving hundreds dead in some of the most ferocious fighting since the civil war began 13 years ago. The conflict involves opponents and supporters of the country's deposed president, Bashar al-Assad, against the new Islamist regime.

Security sources report that fighting has slowed in key cities like Latakia and Jabla, but insurgents continue to hide in the surrounding areas. Sharaa has cautioned against allowing sectarian tensions to shake Syria's fragile peace, urging for national unity in a recently released video.

Unrest has surged following Assad's ousting, with deadly encounters between the new rulers and loyalists in coastal provinces. Over 1,000 have died in recent days as militias launch hit-and-run attacks, retaliatory killings, and sabotage public utilities, exacerbating tensions in the war-torn country.

(With inputs from agencies.)